Keep gardens free from debris. If you have a compost heap don’t include organic food waste, as this will attract them.

If you have already spotted signs of rats, such as droppings, prevention may already be too late.

We would advise you to act quickly to get rid of rats and prevent a large infestation.

How To Deter Rats

Rats are nimble and make the most of any opportunity to enter your home.

Black rats are good climbers and will happily inhabit lofts.

Brown rats can climb but tend to burrow more.

They are very adept at swimming in sewers and drain systems. Both species will gnaw at gaps to enlarge them enough for easy entry.

Proofing Your Home

Entrances -
Young rats can squeeze through small gaps under doorways, so fit strips to the bottom of doors as a deterrent. They will also use cat flaps to get in and will enlarge gaps by gnawing to enter homes via integral garages.

Gaps in exterior walls -
Holes or small openings (around utility cables or pipe work) need to be filled with stainless steel wire wool and caulking or concrete. Steel or aluminium plating can be used. Rats can jump, so check up to a height of about 4 feet.

Roofs -
Rats climb along electrical cables or use overhanging branches to get into loft spaces and attics through gaps in broken roof tiles or under eaves. Repair roof damage and use wire mesh to seal gaps.

Drains and sewer pipes -
Rats have been known to swim up damaged sewer pipes and get round u-bends in toilets, so get into the habit of keeping toilet seat lids closed. They will also use drain pipes and drainage outlets. Use tightly fitting metal grates or screens to cover drains, especially in basement areas. Regularly check pipe work and ensure any breakage is fixed immediately.